Introduction

Continuity is one of the fundamental concepts in

mathematics, particularly in the study and analysis of
functions. It describes the behavior of a function at a
specific point or over an interval, where the function flows
smoothly without any breaks or jumps. Understanding this
concept is crucial for various practical applications, ranging
from solving algebraic equations to its uses in physics,
engineering, and computer science.
In this assignment, we will focus on continuity in algebraic
functions, which are functions composed of basic algebraic
operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and
division. We will explore the definition of continuity, the
conditions required for algebraic functions to be continuous,
and provide illustrative examples. Additionally, we will
discuss relevant theorems and practical applications that
highlight the importance of understanding continuity in
algebraic functions.
The aim of this assignment is to provide a comprehensive
understanding of the continuity of algebraic functions,
supported by practical examples that bridge the gap
between theory and application.
Definition of Continuity:
In mathematics, continuity is a concept that describes the
behavior of a function at a specific point or over an interval.
A function is said to be continuous if it changes smoothly
without any breaks, jumps, or holes in its graph.
Mathematical Definition of Continuity:
A function f(x) is continuous at a point x=a if the following
three conditions are satisfied:
1. The function is defined at a:
f(a) exists.
2. The limit of the function exists at a:
𝑙𝑖𝑚 = 𝑓 (𝑥 )exists.
𝑥→𝑎

3. The value of the function equals its limit at a:

𝑙𝑖𝑚 = 𝑓 (𝑥 )=f(a).
𝑥→𝑎

If any of these conditions fail, the function is discontinuous at x=a.

Geometric Interpretation:
Geometrically, a function is continuous if its graph can be
drawn without lifting the pen from the paper at the point a.
In other words, there are no holes, jumps, or breaks in the
graph at that point.
Examples:
1. Continuous Function:
The function f(x)=x 2 is continuous at every point on the
real number line because it satisfies all three conditions
mentioned above.
Example 1:
Function: 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝒙𝟐 + 𝟑𝒙 + 𝟐

Checking Continuity at x=1:

1. Condition 1: 𝑓(1) is defined.
𝑓(1) = (1)2 + 3(1) + 2 = 1 + 3 + 2 = 6
2. Condition 2: The limit of the function as 𝑥 → 1 exists.
𝑙𝑖𝑚𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑙𝑖𝑚(𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 + 2) = 1 + 3 + 2 = 6
𝑥→1 𝑥→1

3. Condition 3: The limit equals the value of the function.

𝑙𝑖𝑚𝑓(𝑥 ) =𝑓(1) = 6
𝑥→1

Conclusion:
The function𝒇(𝒙) = 𝒙𝟐 + 𝟑𝒙 + 𝟐 is continuous at x = 1.
2. Discontinuous Function:
1
The function 𝑓(𝑥) =𝑥 is discontinuous at x=0 because it is
undefined at that point (i.e., f(0) does not exist).
Example 2:
Examples of Continuous Algebraic Functions:
1. Polynomial Functions:
A polynomial function is a function such as a quadratic, a
cubic, a quartic, and so on, involving only non-negative
integer powers of x. We can give a general defintion of a
polynomial, and define its degree.
Example 3:
 2. Rational Functions:
A rational function is a function that is the ratio of
polynomials. Any function of one variable, x, is called a
𝒑
(𝒙)
rational function if, it can be represented as 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝒒
(𝒙)

where p(x) and q(x) are polynomials such that q(x) ≠ 0

Examples of Rational Functions:
1
1. Simple Rational Function:𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥

o Domain: x≠0.
o Vertical asymptote: x = 0.
o Horizontal asymptote: y = 0.
𝑥 2 −4
2. Rational Function with a Hole:𝑓(𝑥)= 𝑥−2

o Simplifies to f(x)=x+2 for x≠2.

o Hole at x=2.
3. Rational Function with Oblique Asymptote:
𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 + 2
𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑥+1
• Simplifies to f(x)=x + 2 for x ≠ −1.
• Oblique asymptote: y = x + 2.
Types of Continuity:
1. Continuity at a Point:
A function is continuous at a specific point if it
satisfies the three conditions of continuity at that
point.
Example:
2. Continuity on an Interval:
A function is continuous on an interval if it is
continuous at every point within that interval.
Example 4:
let
3. Continuity from the Right and Left:
A function is continuous from the
right at x=a if 𝑙𝑖𝑚+ 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑎) , and continuous from
𝑥→𝑎
the left if 𝑙𝑖𝑚−𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑎)
𝑥→𝑎

Example 5: for function is continuity from the right

Example 6: for continuty from the left

Theorems Related to Continuity:

1. Intermediate Value Theorem (IVT):

Statement:
If a function f(x) is continuous on a closed interval [a,b],
and N is any number between f(a) and f(b), then there
exists at least one number c in the interval [a,b] such
that f(c)=N
Explanation:
The IVT guarantees that a continuous function takes on •

every value between f(a)f(a) and f(b)f(b) at least once.

This theorem is particularly useful for proving the •

existence of roots (solutions) to equations.

Example 7: if the function
2. Extreme Value Theorem (EVT):
Statement:
If a function f(x) is continuous on a closed interval [a,b],
then f(x) attains both a maximum and a minimum value
on that interval.
Explanation:
The EVT ensures that a continuous function on a closed •

interval has both a highest point (maximum) and a

lowest point (minimum).
These extrema can occur either at critical points •
(where f′(x)=0 or f′(x) is undefined) or at the endpoints of
the interval.
Applications of Continuity in Algebraic Functions:
Continuity is a fundamental concept in mathematics with
wide-ranging applications in various fields. Here are some
key areas where continuity in algebraic functions plays a
crucial role:
1. Physics and Engineering:
• Continuity is used to model real-world phenomena,
such as motion, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics. For
instance, the position of an object as a function of
time s(t) is typically continuous, meaning the object
cannot "jump" from one point to another without
passing through intermediate points.
• Example: In kinematics, the velocity of a moving object
is the derivative of its position function. If the position
function is continuous and differentiable, we can
analyze the object's motion smoothly.
2. Computer Graphics and Animation:
• Continuity is vital in computer graphics for creating
smooth transitions and realistic animations. For
example, Bézier curves and splines, which are used to
design shapes and animations, rely on continuous
functions to ensure smoothness.
• Example: When designing a curve in a 3D modeling
software, the continuity of the curve ensures that there
are no abrupt changes or breaks, making the design
visually appealing.

Cubic Bézier curve with four control

points
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the concept of continuity in algebraic
functions is a fundamental aspect of mathematical analysis.
Through this assignment, we have explored the definition of
continuity, its conditions, and its various types, such as
continuity at a point and over an interval. We have also
examined examples of continuous algebraic functions,
including polynomial and rational functions, and discussed
their behavior within their respective domains. Additionally,
key theorems like the Intermediate Value Theorem and the
Extreme Value Theorem highlight the practical significance
of continuity . Understanding continuity not only deepens
our comprehension of algebraic functions but also provides
a strong foundation for further studies in calculus and
advanced mathematics. By mastering this concept, we can
better analyze and interpret the behavior of functions in both
theoretical and applied contexts.
Sources:
"Thomas' Calculus" by George B. Thomas Jr. TEXT
BOOK.
"Purple math" . Online Resources.
"Kaplan, W. "Limits and Continuity"